Thanksgiving is a time for indulgence; for most of us, that means one thing: leftovers! The post-holiday turkey in the fridge is brimming with an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. Turkey leftovers can transform into exciting new dishes, so nothing goes to waste.
Here are 15 ideas to make the most of your Thanksgiving turkey.
Turkey Soup
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Turn your turkey leftovers into a warm, hearty soup perfect for chilly days. Simmer turkey bones with vegetables, herbs, and spices to create a flavorful broth. Add shredded turkey, noodles, or rice, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This classic soup is comforting and an excellent way to stretch your leftovers for several meals.
Turkey Salad
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Up your lunch game with a fresh and tangy turkey salad. Shred turkey with celery, cranberries, and walnuts for crunch and toss with a creamy mayo-yogurt dressing. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a touch of Dijon mustard for a burst of flavor. Serve it over a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or in lettuce wraps for a light, healthy snack.
Creamed Turkey and Biscuits
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Comfort food at its finest: creamed turkey over biscuits is a cozy way to use leftovers. Make a simple cream sauce with butter, flour, and milk, and stir in chunks of turkey and a touch of thyme. Serve the creamy mixture over warm, flaky biscuits for a satisfying meal. Add peas or carrots for extra flavor and color.
Turkey Pho
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Give your leftovers an Asian-inspired twist with a flavorful turkey pho. Use turkey stock as the base, spiced with star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. Add rice noodles, shredded turkey, and your favorite toppings like bean sprouts, fresh herbs, and lime wedges. This vibrant soup brings an unexpected and delicious twist to holiday leftovers.
Turkey Sandwiches
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You can never go wrong with a turkey sandwich, but let’s make it even better! For a Thanksgiving-inspired sandwich, layer turkey with cranberry sauce, stuffing, and a touch of gravy between slices of hearty bread. Or, switch it up with turkey, Swiss cheese, and honey mustard on a croissant. Whichever way you stack it, this grab-and-go choice is always a crowd-pleaser.
Turkey Gumbo
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Spice up your leftovers with a rich, savory turkey gumbo. Create a dark roux and add the “holy trinity” of celery, onions, and bell peppers, followed by turkey and sausage. Simmer with a flavorful stock and season with Cajun spices. Serve over rice for a Louisiana-inspired dish that’s packed with bold flavors.
Turkey à la King
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Turkey à la King is a creamy, indulgent dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Make a velvety sauce with cream and chicken stock, and stir in turkey, mushrooms, and peas. Serve this rich mixture over toast, rice, or puff pastry shells for an elegant presentation. It’s a classic dish that never fails to impress.
Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole
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Combine the nutty flavors of wild rice with turkey for a hearty, oven-baked casserole. Mix cooked wild rice with turkey, mushrooms, celery, and a creamy sauce, then top with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. Bake until bubbly and golden for a dish that feels both rustic and sophisticated. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying all week.
Turkey Tetrazzini
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Turkey Tetrazzini is a creamy pasta bake that transforms leftovers into a decadent dish. Combine spaghetti with turkey, mushrooms, and a luscious white sauce, then bake with a cheesy topping. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch to this comforting meal. It’s a crowd-pleasing classic that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist.
Turkey Enchiladas
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Give your turkey a Tex-Mex makeover with cheesy turkey enchiladas. Roll shredded turkey and cheese in tortillas, then smother them with enchilada sauce and bake until bubbly. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a dollop of sour cream for a flavorful finish. These enchiladas are a fun way to spice up your holiday leftovers.
Turkey Pot Pie
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Turn your turkey into a flaky, golden pot pie loaded with veggies and gravy. For a shortcut, use store-bought pie crust or puff pastry and fill it with turkey, carrots, peas, and potatoes. The creamy filling and buttery crust make this dish a comforting classic. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a hearty meal without much effort.
Turkey Pasta Salad
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Turkey pasta salad is a versatile and refreshing way to use leftovers. Toss cooked pasta with turkey, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and some fresh herbs for a vibrant, balanced dish. It’s great for lunchboxes or a quick dinner.
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
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Give your turkey a starring role in this comforting one-dish meal. Layer stuffing or dressing at the bottom of a baking dish, followed by shredded turkey, drained corn, and green beans. Cover with gravy, spread mashed potatoes on top, and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake until the potatoes are golden and everything is heated through.
Thanksgiving Pie
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Take Thanksgiving flavors and stack them in a unique savory pie. Layer stuffing or dressing in a dish, then add shredded turkey, gravy, and veggies like corn and green beans. Top with mashed potatoes and bake until the layers are bubbling and golden. It’s a fun and creative way to enjoy all your favorite holiday flavors in one bite.
Turkey Chili
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Warm up with a bowl of hearty turkey chili with bold flavors. Use turkey as the base, and add beans, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and chili powder. Simmer until the flavors meld together, and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced avocado. This satisfying dish is perfect for game days or cozy nights.
Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items
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Refrigeration prevents spoilage and may extend the shelf life of common foods and other perishable items. While we may innocently store some foods in the refrigerator, you may be surprised that you shouldn’t store all of them, as this may affect their nutritional value, taste, and texture. Although refrigeration can help preserve certain foods, some items shouldn’t be refrigerated to maintain flavor and freshness. Avoiding these foods can ensure your food stays nutritious, fresh, and flavorful. Here are 15 food items experts warn people never to refrigerate for optimal flavor and freshness.
Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items
20 Food to Stockpile (For the Best Chance of Survival)
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A well-stocked pantry can provide peace of mind and empower you to handle any situation. Whether it’s a natural disaster, economic instability, or simply unexpected guests, having a stash of versatile essential foods can make all the difference. Here’s a list of 20 of the best foods to stockpile, ensuring you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
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